Rideshare Insurance Guide For Uber and Lyft Drivers

December 13, 2018

Insurance Claims with Uber, Lyft, and Other Rideshare Companies

Rideshare drivers are often unsure of what happens with insurance in the event of an accident. They want to know if companies like Uber and Lyft will provide insurance coverage for themselves, their passengers, and their vehicle.

In some cases, the insurance coverage for drivers may seem inadequate. And it might be difficult to know when you’re covered and when you’re not.

Uber and Lyft Coverage

The claims process varies from company to company.

For instance, Uber’s insurance policies cover driver liability and bodily injury for both the driver and the passenger. Uber provides coverage for up to $1 million. If Uber denies your claim, you can consider hiring an experienced rideshare lawyer to file a lawsuit.

Lyft has a similar insurance policy. Their policy provides coverage up to $1 million for any passengers and drivers injured in their vehicles.

Involved in an accident with a rideshare driver?

If you are involved in an accident with a rideshare driver, you may be eligible for a claim against the rideshare company. Typically, these companies take responsibility for their drivers and vehicles, although the drivers are independent and contract-based.

Eligibility depends on contract terms. All rideshare companies have at least some level of responsibility if an accident occurs.

Passengers

As a paying passenger in a rideshare vehicle, you may be able to make an insurance claim or even file a lawsuit in the event of an accident.

Pedestrians involved in accidents

If you are a pedestrian hit by an Uber or Lyft driver, you may be able to make an insurance claim against the company. Your eligibility will depend on if the driver of the car had the app in “passenger mode” or if they were driving without a passenger.

The four phases of rideshare insurance

Rideshare companies typically break down their insurance coverage into four phases:

When the driver is in the car, but the app is disabled or turned off.

When the app is turned on, but before the driver has been matched with a passenger.

When the driver has been matched with a passenger and goes to pick up the passenger.

When a passenger is in the car.

Insurance claims will look different depending in which phase an accident occurs.

How to get what you deserve

Uber, Lyft, and other rideshare companies assume a certain level of responsibility for the safety of their drivers and their passengers.

If you ever find yourself in any sort of accident involving a rideshare vehicle, you should consult an experienced lawyer to understand your rights. The right lawyer can help you get a fair and equitable settlement.